Alexis Leftwich

Motivation to pursue a graduate degree

After earning both my undergraduate and graduate degrees from FSU, I felt compelled to continue embracing the many opportunities that being part of this remarkable community has afforded me. The opportunity to learn from the expertise of faculty and fellow students has been the greatest privilege of my academic journey. Knowing that I can use the tools I’ve gained to create real change for teachers, children, and families has been a profound source of inspiration.

Importance and/or impact of research and work

As a former preschool teacher, the relationships I built with children, families, and colleagues inspired me deeply. My goal is to expand my knowledge so I can continue educating, advocating for, and supporting those who need it. I aspire to be a valuable resource for the early learning community. Broadly, I am interested in learning more about how caregiver interactions shape the communication and language development of infants and toddlers in inclusive preschool settings.

Career aspirations

I hope to become a professor at a university to help prepare future teachers. Additionally, I hope to develop strong research practice partnerships with the early childhood education community.

Advice for anyone considering graduate school

Just make it exist first, you can make it good later. If you're too afraid to make it real, nothing will ever change. Someone has to do it-- why shouldn't that someone be you?

Accomplishments during graduate career

I am most proud of being an OSEP-funded scholar. This distinction is especially meaningful because it reflects the trust placed in me to engage in research and educational opportunities that advance inclusive practices for young children. It also allows me to be part of a unique learning community that champions education rooted in evidence-based practice as a fundamental human right.